Lionel Scaloni decide ‘tough blow’ for AS Roma forward Paulo Dybala as he finally reached agreement
AS Roma forward Paulo Dybala said it was a big blow to be left out of Argentina’s Copa America squad and that he had been confident of selection for the tournament in the United States.
The 30-year-old scored 16 goals in 39 appearances for Roma last season but struggled with injuries and was the surprise absentee from Lionel Scaloni’s 29-man squad named last week.
Scaloni still has to cut three players from the list for the tournament, which runs from June 20 to July 14.
“I felt like I did some good things this year,” the 2022 World Cup winner told The Athletic on Thursday.
“I was confident about making the squad, so it was a very tough blow for me to take because being part of the national team is one of the best things ever.
“But I also understand that it’s hard for our coach to choose. I respect his decision. I’ve got a great relationship with him and he has certainly chosen the best for the team.”
Dybala has a year left on his contract at Roma and he said he was unsure what the future holds for him.
“Italy has given me everything,” added Dybala, who has played in Italy for 12 years with Roma, Juventus and Palermo.
AS Roma is pursuing a move for Filip Kostic as he prepares to leave Juventus at the end of this season.
Kostic has one year left on the three-year deal he signed when he moved to the Allianz Stadium two seasons ago.
Juve was impressed with his performance in his first campaign at the club, but he did not improve in the following season, and his performances seem to have worsened this term.
Kostic has remained one of the senior players in the group, but even before naming a new manager, Juventus is convinced that he is not part of their future plans.
The men in black and white are now open to his departure at the end of this season.
AS Roma is looking to add him to their squad if possible, with Daniele De Rossi eager to work with the winger, according to Calciomercato.
The Serbian might cost them up to €11 million, but Roma wants to lower that fee and pay significantly less.
Kostic did well last season, but we cannot say the same for this campaign, and it would be great to sell him when the term ends.
We have several youngsters who can play his role, and we probably won’t have to sign a replacement.
